Joaquin Phoenix could be the next actor to be announced for the upcoming Batman Vs. Superman movie, scheduled for 2015. The movie will see Henry Cavill's Superman and Ben Affleck's Batman go head-to-head for the first time on film. If the rumour is confirmed, Phoenix will join Cavill and Affleck as well as Amy Adams' Lois Lane and Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman.

Could Joaquin Phoenix Play Lex Luthor?

Fans of the 39 year-old Walk The Line actor won't be used to seeing Phoenix star in such big-name, huge budget action blockbusters which means the Batman Vs. Superman movie will be an intriguing change of role for the reclusive star. According to sources speaking to Variety, Phoenix is being linked to the movie as the film's antagonist, probably Lex Luthor.

It Would Probably Be Phoenix's Biggest Movie Ever

No such casting has been confirmed of denied however, which means we probably shouldn't get our hopes up. The last actor to be linked with the prominent role was Breaking Bad's Bryan Cranston who had to deny that he had been cast as the supervillain. In fact, Joaquin's is the latest in a long line of names said to be in line for the part, including Jason Momoa and Callum Mulvey.

Apparently Warner Brothers are keen to place a string enough actor in the role to make the character unforgettable. "[Warner Bros.] has always wanted someone who would be a slam dunk in the role," sources inform. The last time we saw Phoenix in such a role was 2000's Gladiator as the vengeful Commodus. Joaquin's acting skill and versatility will be mined by Batman Vs. Superman director Zack Snyder, according to reports.

Henry Cavill Returns as Superman

The move is being touted as Batman Vs. Superman at the moment but a string of interesting titles have been registered for copyright purposes, many with the word "dark" included. Variety asses that it could be a challenge to get Phoenix to accept a role in the blockbuster, as he has veered towards more intelligent and intense roles that allow him to show off his acting prowess.